Utility vehicle

Abstract

A utility vehicle includes a ground member, a frame supported by the ground member, a motor supported by the frame and operably coupled to the ground member, and a battery configured to provide power to the motor. The battery may be removable and configured to be readily charged by an external power source, such as a generator and an external battery. The charger may be configured to receive instructions to charge the battery using a particular charger operating characteristic. The vehicle may also include various accessory ports configured to be electrically coupled to accessories using AC or DC power.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 414,359, titled "UTILITY VEHICLE", filed on October 7, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein. Technical field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a vehicle having a replaceable battery, a method of charging such a battery, and related vehicle architectures. Background art

[0004] Electric utility vehicles and recreational vehicles often face limitations not present in larger vehicles, including vehicle range, weight, terrain traversed, etc. This disclosure reflects utility vehicles having replaceable batteries, charging devices, and associated applications and methods of use. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a utility vehicle is provided. The utility vehicle includes a pair of front ground engaging members, a pair of rear ground engaging members, and a frame supported by the ground engaging members. The utility vehicle further includes a user interface supported by the frame, and the user interface is configured to receive user input. An electric motor is supported by the frame, and a battery is removably coupled to the frame, the battery being electrically coupled to the electric motor. A charger is removably coupled to the frame, and the charger is configured to be electrically coupled to the battery. An electronic controller is communicatively coupled to the user interface and the charger, and a memory stores a set of instructions. The controller is configured to operate the charger based on user input at the user interface according to the first set of instructions.

[0006] Additionally, the set of instructions includes charger operating characteristics, and the charger operating characteristic is one of a maximum charge rate and a charger ramp rate. Further, the charger is configured to be electrically coupled to an external power source. The controller is configured to receive power characteristics from the external power source, and the controller is further configured to change the charger operating characteristic based on the power characteristics.

[0007] In various embodiments, the charger is configured to be coupled to a generator, and the generator is configured to provide input power having an input voltage and an input frequency. The set of instructions includes a load shedding flag configured to have one of a first state and a second state, and the controller is configured to monitor at least one of the input voltage and the input frequency and change the charger operating characteristic based on the load shedding flag having the first state and at least one of the input voltage or the input frequency dropping below a threshold.

[0008] In various embodiments, the charger is configured to couple to a generator, and the generator is configured to provide input power having an input voltage and an input frequency. The set of instructions includes a load shedding flag configured to have a first state and a second state, and the controller is configured to monitor at least one of the input voltage and the input frequency. The controller is further configured to change charger operating characteristics based on the load shedding flag having the first state and at least one of the input voltage or the input frequency decreasing by a threshold amount.

[0009] In various embodiments, the controller is configured to receive the position of the vehicle from a position determiner, and the controller is further configured to change charger operating characteristics based on the position of the vehicle.

[0010] In various embodiments, the multi - purpose vehicle further includes an accessory power source removably coupled to the vehicle, and the accessory power source is further configured to supply both AC power and DC power.

[0011] In various embodiments, the multi - purpose vehicle further includes an accessory expansion assembly separably coupled to the vehicle, wherein the accessory expansion assembly is electrically coupled to the battery assembly and is configured to provide DC power to a plurality of accessories.

[0012] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a recreational vehicle is provided. The recreational vehicle includes a power unit, and the power unit includes at least one ground member. The power unit further includes a power unit frame supported by the at least one ground member and a motor supported by the power unit frame. The motor is configured to provide power to the at least one ground member. The power unit further includes a battery supported by the power unit frame, and the battery is electrically coupled to the motor. The recreational vehicle further includes a vehicle frame removably coupled to the power unit and a seat supported by the vehicle frame, and the seat is configured to support an operator.

[0013] In various embodiments of the recreational vehicle, the power unit is a first power unit, and the first power unit is generally positioned at the front of the vehicle. The recreational vehicle further includes a second power unit generally positioned at the rear of the vehicle. The second power unit includes a second power unit frame supported by at least one rear ground member and a second motor supported by the second power unit frame. The second motor is configured to provide power to the at least one rear ground member, and a second battery is supported by the second power unit frame. The second battery is electrically coupled to the second motor.

[0014] In various embodiments of the recreational vehicle, the seat is longitudinally located between the first power unit and the second power unit. In various embodiments, the recreational vehicle includes an electronic controller, and the electronic controller is electrically coupled to each of the first power unit and the second power unit. In various embodiments, the power unit includes a third battery electrically coupled to the battery of the power unit.

[0015] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a multi-purpose vehicle is provided. The multi-purpose vehicle includes a plurality of ground engaging members and a frame supporting the plurality of ground engaging members. The multi-purpose vehicle further includes an operator area supported by the frame and a seat positioned within the operator area. The multi-purpose vehicle further includes a power system that includes a motor supported by the frame, and the motor is configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members. The multi-purpose vehicle includes a charger electrically coupled to a battery, and the charger has a charging input. The charger is configured to operate with a charging characteristic, and the charging input is configured to receive a power input from an external power source. The multi-purpose vehicle further includes a controller and a memory, the controller is operable to change the charging characteristic of the charger, and the memory is configured to store instructions. When the instructions are executed by the controller, the controller causes the controller to receive a power characteristic from the external power source based on the power input, determine an operating charging characteristic based on the power characteristic, and operate the charger with the operating charging characteristic.

[0016] In various embodiments, the operating charging characteristic is one of a maximum charging rate and a charging ramp rate. Additionally, the charging ramp rate can operate in multiple modes. In various embodiments, the multi-purpose vehicle further includes a user interface, and the user interface includes a screen layout configured with a first input. The first input is configured to change the maximum charging rate, and a second input is configured to change the charging ramp rate.

[0017] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a multi-purpose vehicle is provided. The multi-purpose vehicle includes a plurality of ground engaging members and a frame supported by the plurality of ground engaging members. An operator area is supported by the frame, and a seat is positioned within the operator area, and the user interface is configured with an input. The multi-purpose vehicle further includes a power system that includes a motor supported by the frame. The motor is configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members. The power system further includes a battery supported by the frame, and the battery is electrically coupled to the motor. A charger is electrically coupled to the battery, and the charger has a charging input and is configured to operate with a charging characteristic. The charging input is configured to receive a power input from an external power source. The power system further includes a controller and a memory, the controller is operable to change the charging characteristic of the charger, and the memory is configured to store instructions. When the instructions are executed by the controller, the controller causes the controller to receive user input from the user interface, determine an operating charging characteristic based on the user input, and operate the charger with the operating charging characteristic.

[0018] In various embodiments, the operating charging characteristic is one of the maximum charging rate and the charging ramp rate. Additionally, the charging ramp rate can be operated in multiple modes. In various embodiments, the user interface further includes a screen layout that is configured with a first input configured to change the maximum charging rate and a second input configured to change the charging ramp rate.

[0019] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a multi-purpose vehicle is provided. The multi-purpose vehicle includes a plurality of grounding members, and the frame is supported by the plurality of grounding members. The multi-purpose vehicle further includes a power system configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of grounding members. The power system includes a motor supported by the frame, and the motor is operably coupled to at least one of the plurality of grounding members. A battery is supported by the frame, and a controller is coupled between the battery and the motor. The multi-purpose vehicle further includes a charger removably coupled to the vehicle, and the charger is electrically coupled to the battery. An accessory port is removably electrically coupled to the battery and is configured to be electrically coupled to an accessory battery. Additionally, the battery and the accessory battery are configured to be coupled bidirectionally.

[0020] In various embodiments, the multi-purpose vehicle further includes a cover configured to hide at least a portion of the battery. In various embodiments, the multi-purpose vehicle further includes an external mobile power source configured to provide AC power or DC power to the vehicle.

[0021] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery assembly is provided. The battery assembly includes a housing and a plurality of battery cells within the housing. The housing includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. The first side and the third side extend in a first direction, while the second side and the fourth side extend in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. The battery assembly further includes a cover coupled to the top of the housing and a retaining member coupled between an extension on one side of the cover and an extension on the opposite side of the cover. The retaining member extends along the center of the cover in the battery width direction. A charging port is positioned on the cover and is located on one side of a strip. The battery assembly further includes a battery level indicator and a vent, and at least one of the battery level indicator and the vent is positioned on the cover and on the other side of the strip.

[0022] In various embodiments, the battery level indicator and the vent are positioned adjacent to each other. In various embodiments, the battery assembly further includes a base coupled to each of the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side. The base extends generally parallel to the cover, and the fourth side portion includes a recessed portion extending between the cover and the base. Additionally, the fourth side includes a T-shaped slot extending between the cover and the base.

[0023] In various embodiments, a charging port is configured to mate with a connector, and the connector includes a plurality of accessory pins and a pair of main voltage pins positioned within a pair of recesses. At least a first portion of the plurality of accessory pins is located on a first side of a line extending through the pair of main voltage pins, and a remaining portion of the plurality of accessory pins is located on a second side of the line extending through the pair of main voltage pins. Additionally, the first portion of the plurality of accessory pins includes a single ground pin. Further, the recesses of the connector include a generally arcuate circumference having at least one tip, and at least one tip is positioned on the first side of the line extending through the pair of main voltage pins. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 is a graphical representation of a vehicle of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 is a graphical representation of another vehicle of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 3 is a control schematic for any of the vehicles in the vehicles of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a battery for any of the vehicles in the vehicles of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 5 is Figure 4 a bottom perspective view of the battery of.

[0029] Figure 6 is Figure 4 a top view of the battery of;

[0030] Figure 7 is a bottom view of a connector capable of physically coupling to Figure 4 the battery of;

[0031] Figure 7A is a perspective view of a straight connector capable of physically coupling to Figure 4 the battery of;

[0032] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a connection port for any of the vehicles in the vehicles of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 8A is a perspective view of the connection port of any of the vehicles in the vehicles of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 9 is Figure 4 a perspective view of the connection port on the battery of;

[0035] Figure 10 is with Figure 9coupled to the connection port Figure 7 exploded view of the connector;

[0036] Figure 11 is the charger screen layout of the user interface of any vehicle in the vehicle of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 12 is a graph showing multiple modes of the charger of any vehicle in the vehicle of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 13 is a processing diagram for implementing a load reduction process on any vehicle in the vehicle of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 14 is the generator selection screen layout of the user interface of any vehicle in the vehicle of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 15 is the battery charging screen layout of the user interface of any vehicle in the vehicle of the present disclosure; and

[0041] Figure 16 is a block diagram of a computer system for implementing aspects of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0042] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, which will be described below. The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Instead, these embodiments are selected and described so that other technicians in the art can utilize the teachings of these embodiments. Therefore, it is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure thereby. Throughout several views, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts.

[0043] The terms "coupled", "coupled to", "coupler" and their variants are used to include the following two arrangements: an arrangement in which two or more components are in direct physical contact, and an arrangement in which two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (e.g., these components are "coupled" via at least a third component, but still cooperate or interact with each other).

[0044] In some instances throughout the present disclosure and the claims, numerical terms such as first, second, third, and fourth are used to refer to various rotating components and other components and features. Such use is not intended to indicate the order of the components. Instead, the numerical terms are used to assist the reader in identifying the components being referred to and should not be construed narrowly as providing a specific component order.

[0045] In the present disclosure, reference will be made to Figure 1 to describe a recreational or multi - purpose vehicle 2 having an electric powertrain 40. The vehicle 2 includes a frame 10 supported by a plurality of front ground engaging members 4 and a plurality of rear ground engaging members 5 positioned about a longitudinal centerline 30. The plurality of front ground engaging members 4 includes a left front ground engaging member 4a and a right front ground engaging member 4b, and the plurality of rear ground engaging members 5 includes a left rear ground engaging member 5a and a right rear ground engaging member 5b. The ground engaging members 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b can be tires, skis, tracks, or other suitable ground engaging members configured to support the frame 10. In various embodiments, the vehicle 2 includes a single front ground engaging member 4 and / or a single rear ground engaging member 5, or a single ground engaging member can be provided along the right and left sides of the vehicle 2. In the present embodiment, the vehicle 2 includes a pair of front ground engaging members 4a, 4b and a pair of rear ground engaging members 5a, 5b. The vehicle 2 also includes a seat (not shown) supported by the frame 10 within an operator area (not shown). The vehicle 2 can also include a steering assembly (not shown) configured to steer at least one of the ground engaging members 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b. In various embodiments, the vehicle 2 includes an upper frame assembly (not shown) configured to surround the operator area. In some examples, the layout of the vehicle 2 can be the same as or similar to the vehicle layout described in U.S. Patent No. 10,960,941, titled "VEHICLE", issued on March 30, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0046] The powertrain 40 is supported by the frame 10 and in the present embodiment is configured as an electric powertrain having at least one motor assembly 60 and a battery assembly 50. The motor assembly 60 includes an electric motor 61 and a motor controller 62. The electric motor 61 can be an AC motor, a DC motor, or a brushless DC motor. In the present embodiment, the vehicle 2 includes a single electric motor 61 longitudinally positioned between the front ground engaging members 4a, 4b and the rear ground engaging members 5a, 5b. In the present embodiment, the motor 61 is positioned along the longitudinal centerline 30 and is located behind the battery assembly 50. The motor controller 62 is electrically coupled to the motor 61 and is configured to control the motor characteristics of the motor 61. The motor controller 62 can be integrated into the housing (not shown) of the motor 61 or can otherwise be physically separated from the motor 61. In various embodiments, the motor characteristics can be motor speed, torque output, motor acceleration, current input to the motor, voltage input to the motor, or other motor characteristics.

[0047] The battery assembly 50 is electrically coupled to the motor assembly 60 via a plurality of cables (not shown). The battery assembly 50 and the motor assembly 60 can be placed adjacent to each other to minimize the length of the cables. The battery assembly 50 includes at least one vehicle battery or traction battery 51, and a battery controller or battery management unit (BMU) 52. The battery assembly 50 can be placed in various positions on the vehicle 2. In the present embodiment, the battery assembly 50 is longitudinally positioned between the front grounding members 4a, 4b and the rear grounding members 5a, 5b. In various embodiments, the battery assembly 50 is laterally positioned between the front grounding members 4a, 4b or laterally positioned between the rear grounding members 5a, 5b. Additional disclosure regarding the electric powertrain layout can be found in U.S. Application No. 17 / 587,721, filed on January 28, 2022, titled "YOUTH ELECTRIC VEHICLE" (Attorney Docket No. "PLR-02-29200.02P-US"), the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] In various embodiments, the battery assembly 50 includes a first battery 51a and a second battery 51b. The batteries 51a, 51b can be electrically coupled in series or parallel according to the desired performance characteristics of the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the vehicle 2 can be configured to operate in a first mode or configuration, in which only the first battery 51a is electrically coupled to the motor assembly 60, and can also be configured to operate in a second mode or configuration, in which only the second battery 51b is electrically coupled to the motor assembly 60. That is, the user can access both the batteries 51a and 51b, and when the first battery 51a is fully discharged, the user or the BMU 52 can switch to the power supplied from the battery 51b, so that the user can continue to operate the vehicle 2 while the fully discharged first battery 51a is being charged.

[0049] The powertrain 40 further includes a charger 75 electrically coupled to the battery assembly 50. In various embodiments, the charger 75 can also be coupled to a plurality of power-consuming components 230. As Figure 3 shown, the charger 75 includes a rectifier 76, an inverter 77, and a converter 78. In various embodiments, the charger 75 can include only the rectifier 76. In various embodiments, the charger 75 includes the rectifier 76 and the inverter 77. In various embodiments, the charger 75 includes the rectifier 76 and the converter 78. The rectifier 76 can be a half-wave or full-wave rectifier, which is configured to rectify an AC voltage into a DC voltage, which is then stored by the battery assembly 50. In various embodiments, the inverter 77 can be used within the charger 75 so that the battery assembly 50 can invert the DC voltage stored in the battery assembly 50 into an AC voltage to be used by the AC accessory 231 ( Figure 3)The AC voltage used. In various embodiments, the charger 75 is configured with a converter 78 to raise or lower the voltage passing through the charger 75. In various examples, the DC accessory 237 is electrically coupled to the charger 75, and the higher voltage from the battery assembly 50 is converted by the converter 78 for use by the DC accessory 237. The vehicle 2 further includes a controller 55 operatively coupled to the charger 75, the battery assembly 50, and the motor assembly 60. The controller 55 may also be directly or indirectly coupled to each of the power consuming components 230.

[0050] In various embodiments, the battery assembly 50 includes a rectifier 76, an inverter 77, and a converter 78. The battery assembly 50 may be configured to directly supply an AC voltage or a DC voltage to the power consuming components 230. The battery assembly 50 outputs a DC voltage and supplies an AC voltage to the AC accessory 231 through the rectifier 76. The battery assembly 50 outputs a DC voltage at a first voltage level, and supplies a DC voltage at a second voltage level to various power consuming components 230 through the converter 78.

[0051] Referring again to Figure 1 , the vehicle 2 includes a shiftable transmission 68, a rear drive 65, and a front drive 70. The shiftable transmission 68 is operatively coupled to the motor 61 and is configured with a plurality of gear ratios. In various embodiments, the shiftable transmission 68 has a reverse gear, a park gear, a forward high gear, and a forward low gear. In various other embodiments, the shiftable transmission 68 includes a forward medium gear. In various embodiments, the shiftable transmission 68 includes an electronic shift system. Additional disclosure regarding the electronic shift system can be found in U.S. Patent No. 9,746,070, titled "ELECTRONIC CONTROL OF A TRANSMISSION," issued on August 29, 2017, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. In various embodiments, the vehicle 2 does not include a shiftable transmission 68, and the motor 61 is directly coupled to the front drive 70.

[0052] The rear drive unit 65 is laterally positioned between the rear ground members 5a, 5b and is coupled to the motor 61 via a rear drive shaft 63. In the present embodiment, the rear drive unit 65 includes a single input and a pair of outputs. The drive shaft 63 extends between the single input and the motor 61. Further, on each side of the vehicle 2, a half shaft 64 extends between one of the outputs of the rear drive unit 65 and one of the rear ground members 5a, 5b. That is, a power path is created between the motor 61 and the rear ground members 5a, 5b by transferring power from the electric motor 61 to the rear drive shaft 63, from the rear drive shaft 63 to the rear drive unit 65, from the rear drive unit 65 to the rear half shafts 64, and from the rear half shafts 64 to the rear ground members 5a, 5b. The front drive unit 70 is laterally positioned between the front ground members 4a, 4b and is coupled to the motor 61 via a front drive shaft 66. In the present embodiment, the front drive unit 70 includes a single input and a pair of outputs. The front drive shaft 66 extends between the single input and the motor 61. Further, a pair of front half shafts 67 extend between each of the outputs of the front drive unit 70 and each of the front ground members 4a, 4b. That is, a power path is created between the motor 61 and the front ground members 4a, 4b by transferring power from the electric motor 61 to the front drive shaft 66, from the front drive shaft 66 to the front drive unit 70, from the front drive unit 70 to the front half shafts 67, and from the front half shafts 67 to the front ground members 4a, 4b. The rear drive unit 65 and the front drive unit 70 can be an open differential, an electronically locked differential, a manually locked differential, or a limited slip differential.

[0053] The vehicle 2 further includes a front suspension (not shown) and a rear suspension (not shown) configured to couple the ground members 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b to the frame 10. The front suspension can be a double A-arm suspension, a strut suspension, or another type of suspension. The rear suspension can be a double A-arm suspension, a strut suspension, a trailing arm suspension, or another type of suspension. Additional details regarding vehicle suspensions can be found in U.S. Application No. 17 / 098,185, filed on November 13, 2020, titled "VEHICLE" (Attorney Docket No. "PLR-02-29448.02P-US") and U.S. Patent No. 8,613,335, issued on December 24, 2013, titled "SIDE-BY-SIDE VEHICLE", the entire disclosures of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

[0054] Power unit

[0055] Now refer to Figure 2, vehicle 101 will be described. The shape of vehicle 101 may be similar to that of vehicle 2 and may also operate similarly to vehicle 2. Vehicle 101 may also include components that are substantially the same as those of vehicle 2. However, these components may be rearranged and / or repositioned relative to the orientation of the vehicle.

[0056] Vehicle 101 includes a rear power pack 102 and a front power pack 103. Each of the rear power pack 102 and the front power pack 103 supports a frame 110. Illustratively, the rear power pack 102 includes a pair of rear ground engaging members 105 and a rear power pack frame 106. The pair of rear ground engaging members 105 includes a left rear ground engaging member 105a and a right rear ground engaging member 105b, and the rear ground engaging members 105a, 105b are configured to support the rear power pack frame 106. The rear power pack 102 includes a battery assembly 50 supported by the rear power pack frame 106, and the battery assembly 50 is laterally positioned between the rear ground engaging members 105a, 105b. In addition, the rear power pack 102 includes a first hub motor 161a operatively coupled to the left rear ground engaging member 105a and a second hub motor 161b operatively coupled to the right rear ground engaging member 105b. That is, the rear power pack 102 is a dual-motor power pack. In various embodiments, the rear power pack 102 includes only the first hub motor 161a and may be a single-motor power pack. In the present embodiment, the first hub motor 161a is positioned adjacent to the left rear ground engaging member 105a of the pair of rear ground engaging members 105, while the second hub motor 161b is positioned adjacent to the right rear ground engaging member 105b of the pair of rear ground engaging members 105. The first hub motor 161a receives power from the battery assembly 50 and then provides power to the first rear ground engaging member 105a of the pair of rear ground engaging members 105. The second hub motor 161b receives power from the battery assembly 50 and provides power to the second rear ground engaging member 105b of the pair of rear ground engaging members 105. Each of the motors 161a, 161b is coupled to a motor controller 162 configured to control the motor characteristics of the motors 161a, 161b. In the present embodiment, the rear power pack 102 is removably coupled to the frame 110. That is, the rear power pack 102 may be coupled to the frame 110 by removable clamps, fasteners, spline interfaces, pins, latches, or a plurality of them.

[0057] The front power unit 103 includes a pair of front ground engaging members 104 and a front power unit frame 107. The pair of front ground engaging members 104 includes a left front ground engaging member 104a and a right front ground engaging member 104b, and the front ground engaging members 104a, 104b are configured to support the front power unit frame 107. The front power unit 103 includes a battery assembly 50 supported by the front power unit frame 107, and the battery assembly 50 is positioned between the front ground engaging members 104a, 104b. The front power unit 103 includes a motor 161 positioned along the vehicle centerline 30 and configured to provide power to each of the front ground engaging members 104a, 104b via a pair of front half shafts 167. That is, the front power unit 103 is a single-motor power unit. In various embodiments, the motor 161 of the front power unit 103 is an axial flux motor having two outputs, and each output extends to one of the pair of front ground engaging members 104a, 104b. The front power unit 103 further includes a motor controller 162 positioned adjacent to the motor 161, and the motor controller 162 is configured to control the motor characteristics of the motor 161. In the present embodiment, the front power unit 103 is removably coupled to the frame 110. That is, the front power unit 103 can be coupled to the frame 110 by removable clamps, fasteners, spline interfaces, pins, latches, or a plurality of them.

[0058] In the illustrated configuration, the rear power unit 102 is a power unit having a hub motor configuration, while the front power unit 103 is a power unit having a central motor and shaft configuration. In various embodiments, the vehicle 101 can include one power unit having a hub motor configuration and one power unit having a central motor / shaft configuration, and the power unit 102 can be positioned at the front of the vehicle 101 or at the rear of the vehicle 101, and the power unit 103 is positioned at the other of the front of the vehicle 101 or at the rear of the vehicle 101. In various embodiments, the vehicle 101 can include two power units 102 or two power units 103.

[0059] In various embodiments, each of the rear power unit 102 and the front power unit 103 includes a charger 175. The charger 175 is electrically coupled to the battery 51. The power units 102, 103 can be removed from the vehicle 101 and charged at a location that is more accessible than the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the power units 102, 103 can be charged while they are coupled to the vehicle 101. In various embodiments, the user can have multiple power units 102, 103 and exchange them as needed. The power units 102, 103 can be configured for different applications. In one example, one of the power units 102, 103 can be configured for higher torque and lower speed, while the other power unit 102, 103 can be configured for higher speed and lower torque, and the user can exchange the power units as needed.

[0060] Vehicle 101 further includes a controller 155 supported by the frame 110. The controller 155 is positioned on the vehicle 101 and configured to communicate with each of the rear power unit 102 and the front power unit 103 to ensure consistent communication between the power units 102, 103. In one embodiment, if one of the power units 102, 103 is incorrectly installed, the controller 155 may provide a fault signal to the user or otherwise prevent the vehicle from moving. The fault signal may include a noise, a visual notification on the user interface (similar to the user interface 8 of the vehicle 2), or other signals.

[0061] Referring again to Figure 3 , the charger 75 is configured to receive power from the generator 180, the AC source 185, or the DC source 190. In some examples, the generator 180 may include a Polaris Power P3200iE power portable inverter generator available from Polaris Industries of Medina, Minnesota. The generator 180 can be a generator of any suitable power generation size (including 500 watts (W), 900W, 1200W, 1500W, 2000W, 2500W, 3000W, 3500W, 4000W, 5000W, 6000W or larger). The generator 180 is configured such that the power output is an AC power output or a DC power output. The AC source 185 can be a power supply from a household plug-in power source, another vehicle, or other types of AC power supplies. The DC source 190 can be a battery, a converter, or other types of DC power supplies.

[0062] The charger 75 is electrically coupled to the battery assembly 50 and optionally coupled to a plurality of power-consuming components 230. The power-consuming components include one or more AC draw components 231 and one or more DC draw components 235. The AC draw component 231 can be an accessory that utilizes AC power, such as an AC motor, a refrigerator, a compressor, a light, or other accessories. The DC draw component 235 includes an external battery 236, a DC accessory 237, an electric motor assembly 60, or an accessory expansion assembly 238. The DC accessory 237 can include a light, a portable charger, a speaker, a power tool (such as a drill, a saw, a chainsaw, a auger), or other DC accessories.

[0063] Capable of outputting power

[0064] Vehicle 2 may also include various ways to expand power input and power output. An exportable mobile power source or external battery 250 may be removably coupled to vehicle 2. The exportable mobile power source 250 includes a DC source or DC mobile power source 251 (e.g., a battery) that can be charged by an AC source 185. The AC source 185 passes current through a rectifier 252 to convert the AC current to DC current before it is stored in the DC mobile power source 251. In this embodiment, the DC mobile power source 251 may be electrically coupled to the battery assembly 50 to provide additional battery capacity to the traction battery 51 (see Figure 2 ). In various embodiments, the DC mobile power source 251 may be electrically coupled to the DC draw component 235. The exportable mobile power source 250 may also be electrically coupled to the AC accessory 231. The exportable mobile power source 250 includes an inverter 253 electrically coupled to the DC mobile power source 251, which is configured to convert the DC current from the DC mobile power source 251 to available AC current so that the power within the DC mobile power source 251 can be used by the AC accessory 231.

[0065] In this embodiment, the exportable mobile power source 250 is a separable power supply configured to increase the available electrical power of vehicle 2. In one example, the exportable mobile power source 250 is charged via a wall outlet at home or elsewhere, and if the user wants to increase the available power of vehicle 2, the exportable mobile power source 250 can be added to vehicle 2. The exportable mobile power source 250 can be used to increase the speed of vehicle 2, the range of vehicle 2, the maximum torque output of vehicle 2, or other performance characteristics of vehicle 2. Additionally, the exportable mobile power source 250 can be used to power accessories, thereby providing an AC power source from vehicle 2 to power AC accessories that might otherwise not be available. In one example, the exportable mobile power source 250 is commensurate in shape, size, and operation with the battery 51.

[0066] In various embodiments, the exportable mobile power source 250 can be charged by vehicle 2. The battery assembly 50 may be configured to charge the DC mobile power source 251 of the exportable mobile power source 250 so that the user can transfer the exportable mobile power source 250 from a first vehicle to a different second vehicle. In various embodiments, the first vehicle 2 has a fully charged battery assembly 50, while the second vehicle 2 has a fully discharged battery assembly 50. The user can electrically couple the exportable mobile power source 250 to the first vehicle 2 and charge the exportable mobile power source 250, and then the user can electrically couple the charged mobile power source 250 to the fully discharged second vehicle 2 to charge the battery assembly 50 of the second vehicle 2.

[0067] Expandable DC Solution

[0068] The DC accessory 237 can be coupled to the vehicle 2 using a DC connection kit. An exemplary DC connection is the Polaris Pulse Bus Bar sold by Polaris Industries of Medina, Minnesota. The vehicle 2 can also include an accessory expansion assembly 238 that increases the number of DC accessories that can be electrically coupled to the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the accessory expansion assembly 238 includes one additional accessory slot, two additional accessory slots, three additional accessory slots, four additional accessory slots, five additional accessory slots, six additional accessory slots, seven additional accessory slots, eight additional accessory slots, or more additional accessory slots. The accessory expansion assembly 238 can include a DC / DC converter configured to change the voltage level provided to each DC accessory 237. In various examples, the user can increase the total battery capacity of the vehicle 2 and the user can increase the number of accessories that can be powered by the battery assembly 50 of the vehicle 2 as needed. Then, the user can add the accessory expansion assembly 238 as an aftermarket accessory to the vehicle 2 to increase the number of ports available for the DC accessories 237.

[0069] The accessory expansion assembly 238 can be hardwired into the vehicle 2 as part of the DC draw component 235. The accessory expansion assembly 238 can also be directly coupled to the battery assembly 50, the charger 75, or the portable power source 250. In this embodiment, each of the DC accessory 237, the AC accessory 231, and the accessory expansion assembly 238 is communicatively coupled to the controller 55. The controller 55 is configured to control the power consumption of the accessories coupled to the vehicle 2, including each of the DC accessory 237, the AC accessory 231, and the accessory expansion assembly 238. In various embodiments, the controller 55 is configured to control (i.e., send and / or receive communication signals) the current level, voltage level, power-on / off state, and / or fault state of each of the DC accessory 237, the AC accessory 231, and the accessory expansion assembly 238. Additional details regarding accessory control can be found in U.S. Application No. 16 / 560,588, filed on September 4, 2019, titled "MANAGING RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND ACCESSORIES" (published as US20200198467A1, Attorney Docket No. "PLR-15-26865.03P-US"), the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

[0070] Vehicle 2 further includes a user interface 8 supported by the frame 10. The user interface 8 includes a display 9 configured to display a plurality of screen layouts, which may include various information, such as vehicle speed, suspension status, braking status, G-force information, steering angle, group information, geographical information, battery level, battery capacity, battery discharge rate, charging rate, charging mode, or other information. The user interface 8 also includes a plurality of inputs 12. The inputs 12 may be hard buttons, soft buttons, switches, levers, knobs, or other types of inputs. Additionally, the communication unit 260 is communicatively coupled to the user interface 8. The communication unit 260 may communicate via BLTE (Bluetooth Low Energy), WiFi, cellular network, vehicle-to-vehicle network, or other types of communication. The communication unit 260 is configured to receive data (e.g., information, instructions, etc.) from the mobile device 261, cellular network 262, server 263, or vehicle 264. In various embodiments, the communication unit 260 and / or the controller 55 is integrated with the user interface 8. The inputs 12 may be used to control motor characteristics, change the battery discharge rate, change the battery charging rate, initiate communication, control the AC accessory 231, control the DC accessory 237, or change other characteristics of the vehicle 2. For example, the inputs 12 may also be used to cycle through various screen layouts, select soft buttons on the display 9, or adjust the volume of the speaker system. Additional details regarding the display 9 of the vehicle 2 can be found in U.S. Patent No. 9,324,195, titled "RECREATIONAL VEHICLE INTERACTIVE TELEMETRY, MAPPING, AND TRIP PLANNING SYSTEM", filed on February 26, 2014, and issued on April 26, 2016 (Attorney Docket No. "PLR-15-25635.03P-US"), the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

[0071] In the present embodiment, the external battery or accessory battery 236 may be a battery similar to the battery 51, or may be other types of batteries. The external battery 236 may be a battery used in an accessory, such as a removable tool battery. In various embodiments, the external battery 236 is a deep cycle battery commonly used in motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or other types of vehicles. The external battery 236 may be electrically coupled to the vehicle 2 at the accessory expansion assembly 238. In various embodiments, the external battery 236 may be electrically coupled to the vehicle 2 at the charger 75. When the battery 51 is installed on the vehicle 2 and the external battery 236 is electrically coupled to the vehicle 2, the external battery 236 is electrically coupled to the battery 51.

[0072] Still referring to Figure 3, the vehicle 2 further includes a global positioning system (GPS) or a location determiner 56 configured to determine the geographical location of the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the GPS 56 is integrated with the user interface 8. Additionally, the vehicle 2 includes a telematics control unit (TCU) 270 operatively coupled to the controller 55. The TCU 270 is configured to connect to a cloud network 271. The cloud network 271 can be accessed by a user of the vehicle 2, another vehicle, a third party, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), or other organizations. The cloud network 271 can send instructions or information to the vehicle 2 or can receive instructions or information from the vehicle 2. The instructions or information can include fault codes, direction instructions, battery capacity information, battery discharge information, battery health information, motor health information, motor speed, motor temperature, battery temperature, charger information, or other vehicle information. Additional information related to the use of the telematics control unit 270 and the connection of the vehicle can be found in U.S. Application No. 17 / 506,249, filed on October 20, 2021, titled "VEHICLE COMMUNICATION AND MONITORING" (Attorney Docket No. "PLR-886-29463.03P-US"), the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0073] Battery Characteristics and Connectors

[0074] In this embodiment, it is desirable to have a battery 51 that is lightweight, easy to transport, has a high power density, and is user-friendly. Now referring to Figures 4 to 6, the battery 51 will be described in more detail. The battery 51 is generally in the shape of a rectangular prism and is configured to store electrical energy. The battery 51 includes a housing 200 having a first wall 200A, a second wall 200B, a third wall 200C, and a fourth wall 200D. The battery 51 includes a plurality of battery cells (not shown) configured to store and release electrical energy. The battery cells can be made of any suitable chemical composition sufficient to store and release energy for use by the vehicle 2. The battery 51 can be a lithium-ion battery, an alkaline battery, a lead-acid battery, a zinc-carbon battery, a lithium-cobalt battery, or other suitable battery chemistries. The housing 200 also includes a lid 220 and a base 240, each of the lid 220 and the base 240 being configured to couple to each of the first wall or side 200A, the second wall or side 200B, the third wall or side 200C, and the fourth wall or side 200D. The first wall 200A and the third wall 200C are positioned parallel to each other, and the second wall 200B and the fourth wall 200D extend between the first wall 200A and the third wall 200C. Each of the lid 220 and the base 240 is coupled to each of the first wall 200A, the second wall 200B, the third wall 200C, and the fourth wall 200D by a plurality of fasteners 221. Additionally, the lid 220 and the base 240 extend generally parallel to each other. In the present embodiment, one of the walls (i.e., the fourth wall 200D) is configured with a plurality of features, which will be described in more detail herein. The battery 51 has a height 201 extending in a first direction, a width 202 extending in a second direction, and a depth 203 extending in a third direction.

[0075] In the present embodiment, three of the walls (i.e., the first wall 200A, the second wall 200B, and the third wall 200C) are configured as flat surfaces without features. In the present embodiment, the fourth wall 200D includes a plurality of features, including a first T-slot 215A, a second T-slot 215B, and a recessed portion 210. Illustratively, each of the first T-slot 215A, the second T-slot 215B, and the recessed portion 210 extends the entire height of the fourth wall 200D between the lid 220 and the base 240. The T-slots 215 extend inwardly from the outer surface 212 and can be used as mounting points on the battery 51. The T-slots 215 can be used to mount identification, logos, separate lids, or other types of attachments to the battery 51. The ramp portion 211 extends downwardly from the outer surface 212 to the recessed portion 210. Illustratively, the battery 51 has a depth 204 measured at the recessed portion 210. Illustratively, the depth 204 is less than the depth 203. The recessed portion 210 is configured as a poka-yoke feature or a registration feature. That is, the recessed portion 210 can provide a registration feature for enabling the battery 51 to be placed in the vehicle 2 in only a single orientation when the battery 51 is placed into the vehicle 2. Thus, the battery 51 cannot be mis-placed in the vehicle 2. The receiving volume (not shown) in the vehicle 2 can have three flat surfaces corresponding to the first wall 200A, the second wall 200B, and the third wall 200C, and the receiving volume can have a fourth surface having a raised feature (not shown, corresponding to the recessed portion 210) configured to receive the fourth wall 200D. In the present embodiment, the battery 51 can be placed in the receiving volume in only one orientation. In various embodiments, the battery 51 can include a plurality of registration features that can be similar to the recessed portion 210.

[0076] The battery 51 is configured to be easily inserted into and removed from the vehicle 2. The vehicle 2 can be configured to hold a single battery, a pair of batteries, three batteries, or more batteries. Depending on the desired performance of the vehicle 2, multiple batteries 51 can be electrically coupled in parallel or in series. In one example, the batteries 51 are configured in series to increase the total voltage available to the vehicle 2. In another example, the batteries 51 are configured in parallel to increase the total current available to the vehicle 2.

[0077] Still referring to Figures 4 to 6, the battery 51 includes a strap or retaining member 222 that extends across the cover 220. The strap 222 includes a first end 222A and a second end 222B. The strap 222 is coupled to the cover 220 adjacent to the fourth wall 200D at the first end 222A and is also coupled to the cover 220 adjacent to the second wall 200B at the second end 222B. The strap 222 is generally aligned with the center of the width 202 of the battery 51. In various embodiments, the strap 222 includes a rubber overmolded handle positioned between the first end 222A and the second end 222B. The battery 51 also includes a charging port 350 positioned on the cover 220. Illustratively, the charging port 350 is positioned on one side of the strap 222 in the second direction. In various embodiments, the charging port 350 may be located at any suitable location on the battery 51, for example, the first wall 200A, the second wall 200B, the third wall 200C, the fourth wall 200D, or the base 240. In the present embodiment, the charging port 350 is placed on the cover 350 such that the charging port 350 is accessible to a user of the vehicle 2 when the battery 51 is placed in the vehicle 2. The battery 51 also includes a vent 225 positioned on the cover 220. The vent 225 is configured to release gas within the housing 200. In various embodiments, when the gas in the housing 200 reaches a certain pressure, the vent 225 releases the gas to equalize and / or normalize the pressure relative to the ambient pressure outside the battery 51.

[0078] The battery 51 further includes a state of charge (SOC) indicator 226. In the present embodiment, the SOC indicator 226 is positioned adjacent to the vent 225. The SOC indicator 226 includes an input 227 and a plurality of indicator lights 228. In the present embodiment, the indicator lights 228 are linearly aligned, and each indicator light represents a portion of the battery charge level. In the present embodiment, the SOC indicator 226 includes five indicator lights 228, and each indicator light represents 20% of the battery charge level. That is, if one indicator light 228 is on, the battery 51 has a 20% charge, if two indicator lights 228 are on, the battery 51 has a 40% charge, if three indicator lights 228 are on, the battery 51 has a 60% charge, if four indicator lights 228 are on, the battery 51 has an 80% charge, and if all five indicator lights 228 are on, the battery 51 has a 100% charge. In various embodiments, the SOC indicator 226 may have fewer or more indicator lights 228. When a user desires to see the charge state of the battery 51, the user can press the input 227, which will illuminate the appropriate number of indicator lights 228 to display the charge level of the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the user can press the input 227 in a unique manner (e.g., long press or press three times in quick succession), and the SOC indicator 226 can use the indicator lights 228 to display a unique lighting pattern that represents a unique fault code.

[0079] In the present embodiment, each of the charging port 350, the vent 225, the strap 222, and the SOC indicator 226 is positioned on the cover 220 such that when the battery 51 is inserted into the vehicle 2, the user can easily access or view these features. Additionally, each of the power bank 250, the vent 225, the strap 222, and the indicator 226 can be positioned such that they are easily accessible or viewable regardless of the type of vehicle in which the battery 51 is placed.

[0080] In various embodiments, the battery 51 may be configured with a covering or wrapper (not shown) that is configured to cover or hide at least a portion of the battery 51. The wrapper may be made of a flame retardant material. In the present embodiment, the battery 51 generally includes six sides, and the wrapper may cover five sides of the battery 51 and provide an open side to allow gas or fluid to escape in a desired direction in the event of a failure within the vehicle 2 or the battery 51. In the present embodiment, the open side is oriented away from the user of the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the wrapper is configured to cover four sides, three sides, two sides, or only one side of the battery 51. In the present embodiment, the wrapper is constructed as a two-dimensional pattern (i.e., a 2D box template / pattern) and wrapped around the battery 51, and is coupled to the battery 51 using hook and loop or other removable connectors. In various embodiments, the wrapper is constructed as an open volume and placed around the battery 51. In various embodiments, the wrapper is sewn together. In yet another embodiment, the wrapper is coupled together using magnets, or snaps or other fasteners.

[0081] Now referring to Figures 7 to 10 , it is desirable to have a robust connection solution to electrically couple the motor assembly 60, the battery assembly 50, the charger 75, and the various sources 180, 185, 190 together. The connector should be able to transfer sufficient power, withstand a large number of connection cycles, and still operate properly while enduring harsh conditions. In the present embodiment, the charging port 350 on the battery 51 is consistent with (i.e., can mate with) the connection pin pattern 320 of the connector 300. The connection pin pattern 320 includes a pair of recessed volumes 321, each configured to receive a main voltage pin 322. The connection pin pattern 320 also includes a ground pin receiver 324 and a plurality of accessory pin receivers 323. Illustratively, the connection pin pattern 320 is a 2+1+5 pattern.

[0082] In one embodiment, the connector 300 is positioned between any of the generator 180, the AC source 185, the DC source 190, and the charger 75. In another embodiment, the connector 300 is positioned between any of the generator 180, the AC source 185, the DC source 190, and the battery 51. In various embodiments, the connector 300 is positioned between the charger 75 and the battery 51. In the present embodiment, the main voltage pins 322 are configured to transfer high voltage power from the connector 350 to the charger 75 or directly to the battery 51. One of the pair of main voltage pins 322 is configured to transfer high voltage current to the vehicle 2, and the other of the pair of main voltage pins 322 is a neutral pin configured to provide a return path from the vehicle 2. The ground pin receiver 324 is configured to provide a redundant safety connection in the event of a short circuit. Illustratively, the ground pin receiver 324 is located on one side of a line 325 that intersects the center of each of the main voltage pins 322. Additionally, each of the accessory pin receivers 323 is positioned on the other side of the line 325 different from the ground pin receiver 324. Further, the recessed volume 321 is generally teardrop-shaped, having a predominantly curved outer edge with a single tip 326. Illustratively, the tip 326 is located on the same side of the line 325 as the ground pin receiver 324. Illustratively, the charging port 350 is configured to have the same inverted shape to receive the connection pin pattern 320.

[0083] The accessory pin receivers 323 are configured to provide a low voltage input to the charger 75 or the battery 51. The accessory pin receivers 323 are configured to transfer data, information, or instructions between the generator 180, the AC source 185, the DC source 190, the motor controllers 62, 162, and the charger 75 or the battery 51. The accessory pin receivers 323 can be used to transfer information such as charging rate, battery capacity, battery charge, battery health, source health, source capacity, source identifier code, or other information. In various embodiments, the pin 324 is also an accessory pin, and in yet another embodiment, any of the accessory pins 323 can be used as a ground pin.

[0084] The connector 300 further includes a protective sleeve 302 configured to house the wires / inputs to the connector 300. Additionally, the connector 300 includes a housing 305 and a support structure 303 positioned along the protective sleeve 302 and adjacent to the housing 305, the support structure 303 being configured to support the protective sleeve 302 when the connector 300 is bent or moved. The connector 300 also includes an outer protective flange 310 configured to protect the connection pin pattern 320 from debris, liquid, or other intrusive materials.

[0085] In the present embodiment, the unique shape and orientation of the connection pin pattern 320 provide a unique connector for the vehicle 2 and for the charger 75 and the battery 51. The connector 300 is configured to work only with the vehicle 2, 101 or associated components and vehicles (not shown).

[0086] Now referring to Figure 7A , an alternative connector 560 is shown. The connector 560 is coupled to a wire 561 that extends into a housing 562. A protective sleeve 563 is coupled to the housing 562 and extends over the wire 561 to protect the wire 561 during bending of the wire 561. In the present embodiment, the housing includes a thumb support 566 that is configured to provide a leverage point for a user to insert and remove the connector 560 from an insertion point / connection port. The housing 562 also includes a plurality of direction arrows 565 that are configured to guide the user on how to insert and secure the connector 560 within the connection port 350. The housing 562 also includes a sleeve 564 that extends forward from the housing 562 to surround the connection pin pattern 570. The sleeve 564 extends forward and terminates at a lip 567.

[0087] The connector 560 also includes a connection pin pattern 570 that is the same as the connection pin pattern 320. That is, the connection pin pattern 570 includes a pair of recesses 571 having a generally teardrop shape with tips 573. A pair of main voltage pins 572 are positioned within the recesses 571. A plurality of accessory pin receivers 323 are positioned adjacent to the recesses 571, and a ground pin receiver 574 is positioned adjacent to the recesses 571.

[0088] In the present embodiment, the connector 560 is a straight connector, while the connector 300 is a right-angle connector. Each of the connectors 560, 300 is configured to be used in various scenarios based on the space available to the user.

[0089] Now referring to Figures 8 to 10, the connection ports 350 and 400 will be described in more detail. Each of the connection ports 350 and 400 is configured to cooperate or couple with the connectors 300 and 560 and transfer power and / or information therebetween. In the present embodiment, the connection port 350 is configured to be physically coupled to the battery 51, while the connection port 400 is configured to be physically coupled to the charger 75. The connection port 350 includes a base 351 having a plurality of apertures 351A configured to receive fasteners (not shown) to couple the connection port 350 to the battery 51. The connection port 350 further includes a circular flange 352 positioned at the center of the base 351. The flange 352 includes a plurality of registration features 353 configured to dock with the outer protective flange 310. In the present embodiment, the registration features 353 are positioned on the outer surface of the flange 352. The connection port 350 further includes a pair of raised main pin receivers 360 positioned inside the circular flange 352. The main pin receivers 360 include a pair of apertures 363, and the main voltage pins 322 are configured to extend through the apertures 363. As Figure 10 shown, when the connector 300 is aligned with the connection port 350, the connection pin pattern 320 is configured to align with and fit within the circular flange 352. Additionally, when properly aligned, the main voltage pins 322 are configured to align with and fit within the apertures 363, and the raised main pin receivers 360 are configured to align with and fit within the recessed volume 321. The connection port 350 further includes a plurality of accessory pins 362 configured to fit within the accessory pin receivers 323 and a ground pin 361 configured to fit with the ground pin receiver 324.

[0090] Referring to Figure 8 , similar to the connection port 350, the connection port 400 includes a base 401 and a circular flange 402 positioned at the center of the base 401. The circular flange 402 includes a plurality of registration features 403 positioned on its outer surface, the plurality of registration features 403 being configured to dock with another protective flange 310. The connection port 400 further includes a pair of raised main pin receivers 410 sized and shaped to fit within the recessed volume 321. The main pin receivers 410 include a pair of apertures 412, and the main voltage pins 322 are configured to extend through the apertures 412. The connection port 400 further includes a plurality of accessory pins (not shown, similar to the accessory pins 362) and a ground pin (not shown, similar to the ground pin 361).

[0091] The base 401 includes a pair of arms 430 positioned on one extent thereof and adjacent to the circular flange 402, and a second pair of arms 441 positioned on the other extent thereof and opposite the arms 430. The arms 430 include an aperture 431 configured to receive a pin 432. Similarly, the arms 441 include an aperture 442 configured to receive a pin 443. The cover 420 includes a pin housing 422 configured to receive the pin 432. That is, the cover 420 is configured to be disposed between the arms 430 and rotate about the pin 432 to expose or hide the circular flange 402. The cover 420 further includes a latch receiver 421 positioned on the extent of the cover 420 opposite the pin housing 422. The cover 420 is configured to protect the flange 402, the pin receivers 410, and the pins (identical to pins 361, 362) from debris, liquids, or other environmental conditions when the connection port 400 is not in use. The connection port 400 further includes a latch 440 positioned between the arms 441. The latch 440 rotates about the pin 443 between the arms 441. The latch 440 further includes a latch engagement member 444 having a tip 445. The tip 445 is generally sized and shaped to engage the latch receiver 421. In the present embodiment, a biasing member 446 is positioned about the pin 443 and biases the latch 444 to the engaged position, wherein the tip 445 rotates downwardly to engage the latch receiver 421. In the present embodiment, the biasing member 446 is a torsion spring. In various embodiments, the biasing member 446 is another type of spring, shock absorber, linear force element, or other type of biasing member.

[0092] In the present embodiment, the latch receiver 421 is generally rectangular. In various embodiments, the latch receiver 421 may have a circular, square, oval, or otherwise shaped cross-section configured to receive the tip 445. As Figure 8 shown, the connection port 400 shows the cover 420 in the unengaged position, exposing the flange 402 and each of the pins and pin receivers. The user may further rotate the cover 420 downward to hide the flange 402 and each of the pins and pin receivers, and further allow the latch 440 to rotate downward to cause the tip 445 to engage the latch receiver 421, thereby locking the cover 420 in the engaged position.

[0093] Now refer to Figure 8A, an alternative connection port 580 will be described. The connection port 580 includes a base 581 having a plurality of apertures 581A. The base 581 supports a sleeve 582 extending upward from the base 581. The sleeve 582 terminates at a lip 588 and includes a plurality of registration features 583 configured to dock with connectors 300, 560. The connection port 580 includes a pair of main pin receivers 584 positioned within the sleeve 582. The main pin receivers 584 include apertures 585 configured to receive main voltage pins 572. A plurality of accessory pins (not shown, similar to pins 362) and ground pins (not shown, similar to pins 361) are also positioned within the sleeve 582. That is, the plurality of pins positioned within the sleeve 582 are configured to dock with connection pin patterns 320, 570.

[0094] The connection port 580 further includes an arm 586 coupled to the base 581. The arm 586 supports a cover 587 that is rotatably coupled to the arm 586 about a cover rotation axis 590. In the present embodiment, a torsion spring is positioned within the arm 586 to bias the cover 587 to a closed position. In various embodiments, any suitable rotational member may be positioned within the arm 586 to bias the cover 587. The cover 587 includes an internal recess 589 sized and shaped to receive the lip 588. The interface between the cover 587 and the lip 588 forms a sealed interface, thereby sealing the plurality of pins positioned within the sleeve 582. The cover 587 can be rotated to an open position to expose the pins and can be rotated to a closed position to hide and seal the pins.

[0095] Deployable battery charger

[0096] Referring again to Figure 1 , the charger 75 can be removably coupled to the vehicle 2. As previously described, the charger 75 includes a charging port 350 or a charging port 400 to receive an electrical input from the generator 180, the AC source 185, or the DC source 190. The charger 75 further includes an electrical output port (not shown) configured to output electricity to the battery assembly 50. The electrical output port is configured to have a high connection life cycle that is robust and capable of withstanding harsh conditions such as rain, snow, ice, and mud. In one embodiment, the charger 75 is sized and shaped to resemble a storage container (not shown), and the charger 75 can be interchanged with the storage container when the charger 75 is not coupled to the vehicle 2.

[0097] In one example, a user of vehicle 2 has completed a ride and desires to charge vehicle 2. The user attaches power source generator 180, AC source 185, or DC source 190 to charger 75 and charges battery assembly 50. When battery 51 has been fully charged, the user may remove power source generator 180, AC source 185, or DC source 190 from charger 75 and further remove charger 75 from vehicle 2. Charger 75 is typically heavy, large, and inconvenient, and it is beneficial to remove it from vehicle 2 when charger 75 is not in use. When charger 75 is removed from vehicle 2, a storage container or other useful accessory may be added to vehicle 2. In various embodiments, charger 75 may be replaced with an accessory mounting structure, a light / lighting structure / accessory, external battery 236, portable power source 250, AC accessory 231, DC accessory 237, expandable accessory port 238, or other accessory or structure.

[0098] In various embodiments, charger 75 is coupled to vehicle 2 using an accessory mounting system, fasteners, or other mounting method. Charger 75 may be configured to automatically electrically couple to battery assembly 50 when charger 75 is properly coupled to vehicle 2. In various embodiments, charger 75 is coupled to vehicle 2 using the Polaris system sold by Polaris Industries Inc. of Medina, Minnesota. Additional details regarding the accessory mounting system can be found in U.S. Patent No. 7,055,454, titled "VEHICLE EXPANSION RETAINER," filed on July 13, 2004, and issued on June 6, 2006, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 357,204, titled "CARGO AREA FOR UTILITY VEHICLE," filed on June 30, 2022 (Attorney Docket No. "PLR-04-29410.01P-US"), the entire disclosures of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein. In various embodiments, charger 75 may be mounted in the location of a cargo rack for vehicle 2, 101 or on top of a cargo rack for vehicle 2, 101. In various embodiments, charger 75 is mounted inside a utility bed, under the utility bed, on the floor, under a seat, attached to frame 10, or located in other locations in vehicle 2.

[0099] Generator Control

[0100] Now refer to Figure 11, the vehicle 2 is configured to be operatively coupled to the generator 180. In one embodiment, the generator 180 is configured to be electrically coupled to the charger 75 to charge the battery 51 or otherwise provide power to the power consuming component 230. In various embodiments, the generator 180 may provide an AC voltage or a DC voltage to the vehicle 2. As previously described, the generator 180 may have any suitable power generation level.

[0101] The generator 180 is typically used to charge the battery. However, a common difficulty is to match the power consumption characteristics of the vehicle 2 and the charger 75 with the power characteristics, available power, or generator capacity of the generator 180. In one example, the charger 75 is configured to charge the battery 51 at a rate of 1200 W, and if the generator 180 is rated at less than 1200 W, the generator 180 may stall due to attempting to provide more power than it can supply. In another example, if the generator 180 is rated to provide sufficient power to the charger 75, a sudden high draw on the generator 180 from the charger 75 may cause the generator 180 to stall. Accordingly, it is desirable to configure the charger 75 to draw power from the generator 180 at an appropriate rate and increase the rate at an appropriate ramp rate.

[0102] As Figure 11 shown, the display 9 of the user interface 8 includes a generator configuration screen layout 450 for configuring the interaction between the charger 75 and the generator 180. In the present embodiment, the charger 75 is operatively coupled to the controller 55, and the controller 55 is operatively coupled to the user interface 8. Thus, an input to the user interface 8 can provide an instruction to the charger 75 through the controller 55. In the present embodiment, the controller 55 is configured to provide a plurality of charger data between the user interface 8 and the charger 75. The charger data may include the maximum power (W) or the charging rate 452, the charger ramp rate 462, the load shedding flag 475, the type of the generator 180, the amount of power required at the battery 51, and other data.

[0103] As Figure 11As shown, the charging rate 452 can be set to any one of a plurality of preset discrete values 453. In this embodiment, the charging rate 452 can be 900W, 1200W, 1500W, 2000W, 2500W, 3000W, 3500W, 4000W, 5000W, or 6000W. In various embodiments, a custom option 453A can be provided, which allows the user to input another discrete value corresponding to the desired charging rate 452. The screen layout 450 also includes an increase value indicator 455 (e.g., an up arrow) and a decrease value indicator 454 (e.g., a down arrow). In this embodiment, the user can select the value indicators 454, 455 to switch the discrete values 453 provided on the screen layout 450. In another embodiment, if the user selects the custom charging rate option 453A, the user can select the value indicators 454, 455 to switch the value of the charging rate 452 to reach the desired value. In this embodiment, when the user selects the desired charging rate 452, the user interface 8 sends an instruction to the charger 75 via the controller 55 to limit the charging of the generator 180 to the desired charging rate 452. In one embodiment, the user changes the charging rate 452 to a value equal to or lower than the rated power generation capacity of the generator 180 so as not to stall the generator 180 due to attempting to draw too much power from the generator 180. In another embodiment, the user may be aware that the generator 180 is also charging / powering another accessory (e.g., a lamp), and the user selects a charging rate 452 that allows the generator 180 to supply power to the charger 75 and another accessory without stalling the generator 180.

[0104] The charger ramp rate 462 indicates the rate at which charger 75 ramps the charging rate 452 from 0W to the desired charging rate 452. In the present embodiment, the screen layout 450 provides three preset options 463, including a "fast" option 463A, a "normal" option 463B, and a "slow" option 463C for the charger ramp rate 462. In various embodiments, the screen layout 450 includes a custom charger ramp rate option 463D that is configured to provide the user with more control over the ramp rate 462. The screen layout 450 also includes an increase value indicator 465 (e.g., an up arrow) and a decrease value indicator 464 (e.g., a down arrow). In the present embodiment, the user can select the value indicators 464, 465 to switch between the preset charger ramp rate options 463 provided on the screen layout 450. In another embodiment, if the user selects the custom charger rate option 463D, the user can select the value indicators 464, 465 to switch the value of the charger ramp rate 462 to reach the desired value. In the present embodiment, when the user selects the desired charger ramp rate 462, the user interface 8 sends an instruction via the controller 55 to the charger 75 to specify the charging ramp rate 462 between the generator 180 and the charger 75.

[0105] Now referring to Figure 12 , a graph showing an example charger ramp rate 462 between the generator 180 and the charger 75 is shown. Illustratively, the graph 470 includes charger ramp rates 462 for the "fast" 463A, "normal" 463B, and "slow" 463C options for charging rates 452 up to 6000W. In the present embodiment, in the "fast" 463A charger ramp rate mode, the charger ramp rate 452 is greater than in the "slow" 463C or "normal" 463B modes. Additionally, in the "normal" 463B mode, the charger 75 reaches the maximum charger rate 452 faster than the "slow" 463C option. In the present embodiment, the "fast" 463A option has a charger ramp rate of 500W / s, the "normal" 463B option has a charger ramp rate of 200W / s, and the "slow" option has a charger ramp rate of 50W / s. In various embodiments, other charger ramp rates are contemplated.

[0106] Having a variable charger ramp rate 462 allows a user to adjust the rate at which charger 75 increases its power draw from generator 180. In some cases, if charger 75 instantaneously starts at the maximum charge rate 452, rapid power draw may cause problems with generator 180, potentially shock the components of generator 180, and may cause generator 180 to stall. By initiating the charger ramp rate 462, the user can draw power from generator 180 at an increasing rate up to the maximum charge rate 452 while reducing the stress on generator 180 and avoiding applying a high pulse load to generator 180, thereby reducing stalling and increasing the life of generator 180.

[0107] Referring again to Figure 11 , the screen layout 450 includes a load shed input 475. The load shed input 475 is configured as a toggle button that indicates the status (e.g., on or first state, or off or second state) of the load shed feature of vehicle 2, 101. Turning to Figure 13 , the process 500 will be explained starting from decision box 502. Process 500 asks whether the load shed input 475 is in the on state or the off state. If the load shed input 475 is in the off state, decision box 502 continuously repeats itself until it is determined that the load shed input 475 is in the on state. When the load shed input 475 is in the on state, the user interface 8 sends a load shed flag or indicator to charger 75 via controller 55. When charger 75 receives the load shed flag, process 500 moves to box 504, and charger 75 monitors the energy input from generator 180. Charger 75 is configured to monitor voltage output, current output, and frequency output. In box 504, charger 75 is configured to determine whether the voltage from generator 180 has decreased. In various embodiments, box 504 is configured to determine whether the input voltage to the charger has decreased by a certain threshold, which can be a discrete value, a percentage of the voltage, or another metric. In various embodiments, box 504 is configured to determine whether the input voltage to the charger has decreased to a value below a minimum threshold. If it is determined in box 504 that the voltage has not decreased by more than the threshold, process 500 moves to box 506. Decision box 506 determines whether the frequency of the input power has decreased. In various embodiments, box 506 is configured to determine whether the frequency of the input power has decreased by a certain threshold, which can be a discrete value, a percentage of the frequency, or another metric. In other embodiments, box 506 is configured to determine whether the frequency of the input power has decreased to a value below a minimum threshold. If it is determined in box 506 that the frequency has not decreased by more than the threshold, process 500 moves back to the start of the process.

[0108] If it is determined in block 504 or block 506 that the voltage or frequency has dropped below a threshold or other value, process 500 moves to block 508, where charger 75 will begin a load shedding process. When it is determined that the voltage or frequency of the input power from generator 180 has dropped below a threshold or other value, this may indicate that generator 180 cannot keep up with the requested power. Thus, it is advantageous to establish a load shedding process where charger 75 can request less power, such that the demand on generator 180 is reduced. This process reduces the likelihood that generator 180 will experience a stall event or other power loss event. The load shedding in block 508 will instruct charger 75 to request a lower total amount of power from generator 180 until the voltage and frequency (in blocks 504 and 506 respectively) return to a state above the previously described threshold. In various embodiments, in the load shedding process of block 508, charger 75 is configured to reduce the requested power input by a percentage of the total requested power. In yet another embodiment, charger 75 is configured to linearly reduce the requested power input until the voltage and frequency return to a value equal to or above the previously described threshold. In one embodiment, if generator 180 is charging vehicle 2 and the user electrically couples an additional accessory to generator 180, the total capacity of generator 180 is reduced, and when controller 55 instructs charger 75 to complete load shedding, charger 75 will reduce the requested power from generator 180 to better match the available power from generator 180.

[0109] Referring again to Figure 11 , screen layout 450 includes an input 480 configured to allow a user to select a generator from a list of generators 481 ( Figure 13 ). As Figure 13 shown, screen layout 478 displays a list of generators 481 that includes a plurality of selectable generators 482 that have previously been used with vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the list of generators 481 is populated by mobile device 261, cellular network 262, server 263, or vehicle 264. As Figure 14 shown, the first generator 180 "Polaris 3000W" is selected, and each selectable generator 482 has a profile 490 that can be displayed on screen layout 478 along with the list of generators 481. Profile 490 includes the selected generator 482, an image 185 of the generator, a default charge rate 452, a default charger ramp rate 462, and a default load shedding flag state 275. In various embodiments, the user can select any aspect of profile 490, including image 485, default charge rate 452, default charger ramp rate 462, and default load shedding state 475, and change the values associated with each of them in a manner similar to the method disclosed for screen layout 450 in reference to Figure 11 .

[0110] In this embodiment, the list 481 further includes a new generator option 483 configured to allow a user to add a new generator. When the user selects the new generator option 483, the user can name the generator and indicate a desired charge rate 452, a desired charger ramp rate 462, and a desired default load shed flag status 275. The list 481 may also include a detection option 484 configured to detect nearby generators. The detection option 484 can communicate with nearby generators 180 via BLTE, WiFi, cellular, or other means using the communication unit 260. In another embodiment, the user can place the connected mobile device 261 near a compatible generator 180 such that the mobile device 261 can read / receive the unique signature of the generator 180 from the NFC chip. Additional details of the various detection options can be found in PCT Application No. PCT / US2022 / 038442, titled "VEHICLE SMART TAG," filed on July 27, 2022 (Attorney Docket No. "PLR-00TC-29872.02P-WO"), the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. Each of these methods provides a way for the controller 55 to receive relevant power information (including charge rate 452, charger ramp rate 462, and load shed flag 275) from the generator 180. When the controller 55 receives power information from the detected generator 180, the profile 490 of the detected generator 180 is automatically populated. Illustratively, the screen layout 450 includes a confirmation input 486 that can be selected when the correct generator 180 from the list 481 is selected. When the confirmation input 486 is selected, the controller 55 sends instructions to the charger 75 to operate using the specified charge rate 452, charger ramp rate 462, and load shed settings 475 of the profile 490 for the selected generator 180.

[0111] In various embodiments, the controller 55 determines that the vehicle 2 is in a designated location via the position determiner 56 and adjusts the generator settings based on the position of the vehicle 2. In one example, the controller 55 uses the GPS 56 or the TCU 270 to determine that the vehicle 2 is at a "home" station and may be plugged into a constant power source, such as a wall outlet, and the load shed flag 475 will be automatically removed since the power source is constant.

[0112] Now refer to Figure 15, the controller 55 is configured to detect when the external battery 236 is electrically coupled to the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, when the external battery 236 is coupled to the vehicle 2, the controller 55 is configured to provide an instruction to automatically charge the external battery 236 using the battery 51. In various embodiments, when the external battery 236 is coupled to the vehicle 2, the controller 55 is configured to provide an instruction to automatically charge the battery 51 using the external battery 236.

[0113] Still referring to Figure 15 , the display 9 of the user interface may include a screen layout 550 configured to display icons of the batteries 51a and 51b and the external battery 236. Additionally, the screen layout 550 is configured to display the charge levels 556 of the batteries 51a, 51b and the charge level 555 of the external battery 236. The screen layout 550 further includes a first directional input 552, a second directional input 553, and a neutral input 551. The user may actuate or select the first directional input 552 (illustratively, an arrow pointing from the batteries 51a, 51b to the external battery 236), and the controller 55 is configured to provide an instruction to charge the external battery 236 using the batteries 51a, 51b. Additionally, the user may actuate or select the second directional input 553 (illustratively, an arrow pointing from the external battery 236 to the batteries 51a, 51b), and the controller 55 is configured to provide an instruction to charge the batteries 51a, 51b using the external battery 236. In the case where the user does not desire any charge transfer between the battery 51 and the external battery 236 in any way, the user may actuate or select the neutral input 551. When the external battery 236 is coupled to the vehicle 2, the connection between the external battery 236 and the batteries 51a, 51b is bi-directional.

[0114] Now referring to Figure 16 , an exemplary computing system 700 is provided. In the present embodiment, some or all of the functions of the controller 55, the TCU 270, the communication unit 260, the mobile device 261, the vehicle 264, the user interface 8, or other systems on the vehicles 2, 101 may be performed by one or more computing systems having components similar to those of the computing system 700. This figure is merely an example and should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications.

[0115] The computing system 700 includes a bus 702 or other communication mechanism for communicating information between a processor 704, a display 706, a cursor control component 708, an input device 710, a main memory 712, a read-only memory (ROM) 714, a storage unit 716, and / or a network interface 718. In some examples, the bus 702 couples to the processor 704, the display 706, the cursor control component 708, the input device 710, the main memory 712, the read-only memory (ROM) 714, the storage unit 716, and / or the network interface 718. And, in certain examples, the network interface 718 couples to a network 720 (e.g., network 112).

[0116] In some examples, the processor 704 includes one or more general-purpose microprocessors. In some examples, the main memory 712 (e.g., random access memory (RAM), cache, and / or other dynamic storage devices) is configured to store information and instructions to be executed by the processor 704. In certain examples, the main memory 712 is configured to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions to be executed by the processor 704. For example, when the instructions are stored in the storage unit 716 accessible by the processor 704, the computing system 700 is presented as a special-purpose machine (e.g., components 112 to 128) customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions. In some examples, the ROM 714 is configured to store static information and instructions for the processor 704. In certain examples, the storage unit 716 (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or a flash drive) is configured to store information and instructions.

[0117] Thus, the computing system 700 may include at least some form of computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by the processor 704 or other devices. For example, the computer-readable medium can include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media can include volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media may not include communication media.

[0118] In some embodiments, the display 706 (e.g., a cathode ray tube (CRT), an LCD display, or a touch screen) is configured to display information to a user of the computing system 700. In some examples, the input device 710 (e.g., alphanumeric keys and other keys) is configured to convey information and commands to the processor 704. For example, the cursor control 708 (e.g., a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys) is configured to convey additional information and commands to the processor 704 (e.g., to control the movement of a cursor on the display 706).

[0119] Although the present invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, this application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present invention using its general principles. In addition, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.

Claims

1. A multi - purpose vehicle, comprising: A pair of front grounding members; A pair of rear grounding members; A frame supported by the grounding members; A user interface supported by the frame and configured to receive user input; An electric motor supported by the frame; A battery removably coupled to the frame and electrically coupled to the electric motor; A charger removably coupled to the frame and configured to be electrically coupled to the battery; And An electronic controller communicatively coupled to the user interface and the charger; A memory storing a set of instructions, the controller being configured to: operate the charger according to the first set of instructions based on the user input at the user interface.

2. The multi - purpose vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The set of instructions includes charger operation characteristics, and the charger operation characteristics are one of a maximum charging rate and a charger ramp rate.

3. The multi - purpose vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The charger is configured to be electrically coupled to an external power source, the controller being configured to receive power characteristics from the external power source, and the controller is further configured to change the charger operation characteristics based on the power characteristics.

4. The multi - purpose vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising an accessory power source removably coupled to the vehicle, the accessory power source further configured to supply both AC power and DC power.

5. The multi - purpose vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The charger is configured to be coupled to a generator configured to provide input power having an input voltage and an input frequency, and the set of instructions includes a load shedding flag configured to have a first state and a second state, the controller being configured to monitor at least one of the input voltage and the input frequency and to change the charger operation characteristics based on the load shedding flag having the first state and at least one of the input voltage or the input frequency dropping below a threshold.

6. The multi - purpose vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The charger is configured to be coupled to a generator configured to provide input power having an input voltage and an input frequency, and the set of instructions includes a load shedding flag configured to have a first state and a second state, the controller being configured to monitor at least one of the input voltage and the input frequency, and the controller is further configured to: change the charger operation characteristics based on the load shedding flag having the first state and at least one of the input voltage or the input frequency dropping by a threshold amount.

7. The multi - purpose vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The controller is configured to receive the position of the vehicle from a position determiner, and the controller is further configured to change the charger operation characteristics based on the position of the vehicle.

8. The multi - purpose vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising an accessory expansion assembly separably coupled to the vehicle, the accessory expansion assembly being electrically coupled to the battery assembly and configured to provide DC power to a plurality of accessories.

9. A recreational vehicle, comprising: A power unit including: At least one grounding member; A power unit frame supported by the at least one grounding member; A motor supported by the power unit frame and configured to provide power to the at least one grounding member; A battery supported by the power unit frame and electrically coupled to the motor; A vehicle frame removably coupled to the power unit; and A seat supported by the vehicle frame and configured to support an operator.

10. The recreational vehicle according to claim 9, wherein, The power unit is a first power unit and is generally positioned at the front of the vehicle. The vehicle further includes a second power unit generally positioned at the rear of the vehicle. The second power unit includes: A second power unit frame supported by at least one rear ground engaging member; A second motor supported by the power unit frame, the second motor being configured to provide power to the at least one rear ground engaging member; and A second battery supported by the power unit frame, the battery being electrically coupled to the motor.

11. The recreational vehicle according to claim 10, wherein, The seat is longitudinally located between the first power unit and the second power unit.

12. The recreational vehicle according to claim 10, further comprising an electronic controller, the electronic controller being electrically coupled to each of the first power group and the second power group.

13. The recreational vehicle according to claim 9, wherein, The power unit includes a second battery electrically coupled to the battery of the power unit.

14. A multi-purpose vehicle, comprising: A plurality of ground engaging members; A frame that supports the plurality of ground engaging members; An operator area supported by the frame, and a seat positioned within the operator area; And A power system including: A motor supported by the frame, the motor being configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members; A battery supported by the frame, the battery being electrically coupled to the motor; A charger electrically coupled to the battery, the charger having a charging input and being configured to operate with a charging characteristic, the charging input being configured to receive a power input from an external power source; A controller capable of operating to change the charging characteristic of the charger; A memory that stores instructions that, when executed by the controller, cause the controller to: Receive a power characteristic from the external power source based on the power input; Determine an operating charging characteristic based on the power characteristic; and Operate the charger with the operating charging characteristic.

15. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 14, wherein, The operating charging characteristic is one of a maximum charging rate and a charging ramp rate.

16. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 15, wherein, The charging ramp rate can be operated in multiple modes.

17. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 14, further comprising a user interface, the user interface further comprising a screen layout, the screen layout being configured with a first input and a second input, the first input being configured to change a maximum charging rate, and the second input being configured to change a charging ramp rate.

18. A multi-purpose vehicle, comprising: A plurality of ground engaging members; A frame that supports the plurality of ground engaging members; An operator area supported by the frame, and a seat positioned within the operator area; And A user interface configured with an input; And A power system including: A motor supported by the frame, the motor being configured to provide power to at least one of the plurality of ground engaging members; A battery supported by the frame, the battery being electrically coupled to the motor; A charger electrically coupled to the battery, the charger having a charging input and being configured to operate with a charging characteristic, the charging input being configured to receive a power input from an external power source; and A controller capable of operating to change the charging characteristic of the charger; A memory that stores instructions that, when executed by the controller, cause the controller to: Receive user input from the user interface; Determine an operating charging characteristic based on the user input; Operate the charger with the operating charging characteristic.

19. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 18, wherein, The operating charging characteristic is one of a maximum charging rate and a charging ramp rate.

20. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 19, wherein, The charging ramp rate can be operated in multiple modes.

21. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 18, wherein, The user interface further includes a screen layout configured with a first input and a second input, the first input being configured to change the maximum charging rate and the second input being configured to change the charging ramp rate.

22. A multi-purpose vehicle, comprising: A plurality of grounding members; A frame supported by the plurality of grounding members; A power system configured to supply power to at least one of the plurality of grounding members, the power system including: A motor supported by the frame, the motor operably coupled to at least one of the plurality of grounding members; A battery supported by the frame; A controller coupled between the battery and the motor; A charger removably coupled to the vehicle, the charger electrically coupled to the battery; An accessory port removably electrically coupled to the battery, the accessory port configured to be electrically coupled to an accessory battery; and The battery and the accessory battery are configured to be bi-directionally coupled.

23. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 22, further comprising a cover configured to hide at least a portion of the battery.

24. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 22, wherein, The vehicle further includes an external mobile power source configured to provide AC power or DC power to the vehicle.

25. A battery assembly, comprising: A housing and a plurality of battery cells within the housing, the housing including a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side, the first side and the third side extending in a first direction and the second side and the fourth side extending in a second direction, the second direction being a direction orthogonal to the first direction; A cover coupled to the top of the housing; A retaining member coupled between a side extension of the cover and an opposite side extension of the cover, the belt member extending along the center of the cover in the battery width direction; A charging port positioned on the cover, the charging port positioned on one side of the belt; And A battery level indicator and a vent, at least one of the battery level indicator and the vent positioned on the cover, positioned on the other side of the belt.

26. The battery assembly according to claim 25, wherein, The battery level indicator and the vent are positioned adjacent to each other.

27. The battery assembly according to claim 25 further includes a base coupled to each of the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side, and the base extends generally parallel to the cover, wherein, The fourth side includes a recessed portion extending between the cover and the base.

28. The battery assembly according to claim 27, wherein, The fourth side further includes a T-shaped slot extending between the cover and the base.

29. The battery assembly according to claim 25, wherein, The charging port is configured to mate with a connector, and the connector includes a plurality of accessory pins, a pair of main voltage pins positioned within a pair of recesses, and at least a first portion of the plurality of accessory pins is located on a first side of a line extending through the pair of main voltage pins, and a remaining portion of the plurality of accessory pins is located on a second side of the line extending through the pair of main voltage pins.

30. The battery assembly according to claim 29, wherein, The first portion of the plurality of accessory pins includes a single ground pin.

31. The battery assembly according to claim 30, wherein, The recesses of the connector include a generally arcuate circumference having at least one tip, and the at least one tip is positioned on a first side of the line extending through the pair of main voltage pins.

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